> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ms-kb.msd.unimelb.edu.au/next-lab/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ms-kb.msd.unimelb.edu.au/next-lab/3d-printing/key-techniques/post-processing-ghabbour/no-sanding-method.md).

# No Sanding Method

A guide to post processing a 3D printed model without needed to sand

The no-sanding method is the quickest and easiest method to achieve a decent level of finish to PLA prints. Aesthetically this process will not cover up the striations on your 3D-prints, however it is a great method for quickly colouring and finishing your parts to convey desirable effects.

![](https://1820679795-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-LXautSvCbUco5Lv7YrH%2F-LjnKsK11OhPjdV88Xrs%2F-LjnL8WyhJmgouQ2dFZk%2FIMG_2936.JPG?alt=media\&token=2d64e20a-4a69-45c2-93e7-1d449567cd4d)

### Summary

| Category       | Rating    |
| -------------- | --------- |
| Speed          | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ |
| Finish Quality | ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆ |

![](https://1820679795-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-LXautSvCbUco5Lv7YrH%2F-LjnKsK11OhPjdV88Xrs%2F-LjnM7q89f02IvpCipG5%2F1.jpg?alt=media\&token=68a9d25c-ee3c-4e1e-9df4-8914c2f6247a)

### Materials

* High-cover aerosol paint + primer (such as Rustoleum 2X)
* Clear Satin Fast-Drying Polyurethane (such as Cabbots or MinWax)
* Isopropyl wipes or similar to clean part

### Method

1. First ensure that the part is clean and dry. **Wipe the part** down with Isopropyl wipes or a similar product.
2. Apply a **medium coat** of high-cover paint to the part
3. Immediately apply a **light coat** of the polyurethane 
4. **Wait 10 minutes** in-between coats
5. Repeat steps 2-4 a total of **5 times**
6. Leave the part to **dry overnigh**t
7. If the part is discoloured, it **may** benefit from a final coat of high-cover paint.

![](https://1820679795-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-LXautSvCbUco5Lv7YrH%2F-LjnMX329mKgYDoIWZEz%2F-LjnMt2YUUD-BFVYnr4v%2FIMG_2833.JPG?alt=media\&token=3e0b6f0e-27a5-47d1-bfe1-17f1135d9c12)

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rn4edNztaPU>" %}
No-Sand Method Instructional Video
{% endembed %}